How to Answer the “Personal Achievement” Interview Question: Tips from Successful Professionals
The “Personal Achievement” interview question is often asked by hiring managers to identify candidates who can bring value to their organization. Answering this question can be challenging, however, with adequate preparation and a clear understanding of what hiring managers are looking for, candidates can showcase their personal achievements and increase their chances of being hired.
What is the “Personal Achievement” Interview Question?
The “Personal Achievement” interview question is a behavioral question that is commonly asked by hiring managers during job interviews. It is designed to assess how candidates have handled a challenging situation in the past, and how they have applied their skills and experiences to achieve a positive outcome. It may also be used to gauge a candidate’s level of self-awareness, ambition, and motivation.
What are Successful Professionals Saying?
When asked about the “Personal Achievement” interview question, successful professionals offer some key insights:
– Preparation is key. It’s important to think ahead of time about potential personal achievements relevant to the position and the company.
– Focus on the story. A great answer to this question tells a story that demonstrates how the candidate overcame a challenge and achieved success.
– Highlight skills and abilities. Be sure to highlight specific skills and abilities that were pivotal in the success of the achievement.
– Be authentic. Hiring managers can easily spot insincerity, so be honest and genuine in your story.
Example Responses to the “Personal Achievement” Interview Question
Here are some examples of successful responses to the “Personal Achievement” interview question:
1. “One of my proudest personal achievements occurred when I was working at a startup. We had a tight deadline, and my team was struggling to meet it. I took the initiative to gather everyone together, brainstorm ideas, and delegate tasks. This resulted in us meeting the deadline with a successful product launch. What I learned from that experience was the importance of communication and delegation, and how that can lead to success.”
2. “One of my biggest achievements occurred when I was volunteering for a non-profit organization. I started as a volunteer, but soon became a team leader, overseeing a group of volunteers and organizing successful fundraising events. What I learned from that experience was how to motivate and lead a team, and how that can lead to positive results.”
3. “I’m proud of my achievement in completing a difficult project for a previous employer. I was tasked with creating a new training program for the company, and it had to be completed within a tight deadline. Despite facing several challenges, such as a limited budget and a small team, I successfully delivered the program on time, which led to an increase in employee engagement and productivity. What I learned from that experience was how to be resourceful, creative, and focused under pressure.”
Conclusion
In summary, the “Personal Achievement” interview question can be challenging, but it offers a great opportunity for candidates to showcase their skills and experiences. By preparing ahead of time, focusing on the story, and highlighting skills and abilities, candidates can deliver a successful answer and impress hiring managers. Remember to be authentic, honest, and genuine in your response. Best of luck in your next interview!
